University for Business and Technology
University of Business and Technology in Kosovo: UBT Knowledge Center CollectionsNot a member yet
8054 research outputs found
Sort by
Visual Communication as a tool in conducting military and hybrid operations
No full textThe analysis presents the factors, impact and threats of Russian hybrid attacks as part of building nonviolent social campaigns (in ex. in NATO\u27s eastern flank countries) in terms os peace and war. The focus was on visual communication and digital activism in the media space, with particular emphasis on new media and social media (mostly Russian and Belarusian activism. This type of digital activism uses various tools, from cyberattacks, cyber criminality, stealing data, to legal ones such as online campaigns, fake news, hate speech, trolling, or using graphic forms such as cartoons and memes to ridicule and discredit the opponent. This part of the hybrid warfare is carried out using all internet channels, social media and platforms. Starting from sponsored articles, favorable and often paid media in the EU, manipulated videos (such as those presenting Ukrainian soldiers in an unfavorable light) to fake comments on social media, manipulated and altered photographs, mocking cartoons or memes which, as a popular means of entertainment and communication in society, create in their own way a view of reality among users. Manipulated content in the form of videos and articles most often appears on Telegram, Viber and X platform channels, which allows them to efficiently bypass EU sanctions, thus allowing users to easily access such content without the need to install a VPN. Memes and cartoons are already appearing in all social media, and while they can be treated as free artistic creation, they are also an element of well-paid campaigns. In Poland, for example, there are companies that provide services of creating marketing and political campaigns through memes. Russia is a step further, using subliminal action to give the impression that the majority of society thinks in one way or another. These include antiUkrainian campaigns conducted with particular intensity in Poland and Slovakia, anti-immigration campaigns conducted throughout Europe (led by France and Poland), alleged promotion of traditional values” aimed at slandering life in Western Europe and negating progress. Pro-Russian campaigns in Latvia and Estonia. A detailed analysis of the campaigns mentioned will be discussed later in the article. It is worth noting that in this way Russia is building a kind of resistance movement in European societies - a mass of people who uncritically absorb information found on the Internet, a mass that is critical and even aggressive towards the rest of society, and which itself acts as a transmitter because it replicates and shares content it finds. This is an easy ground for creating and building a network of collaborators, potential collaborators, especially among the marginalized or somehow socially excluded. The tactics of individual campaigns, the possibilities of prevention, and solutions that build resilience will be discussed in detail in the paper
Russia\u27s irregular warfare in Ukraine 2014-2022
No full textStudies on irregular warfare in the context of hybrid warfare, as exemplified by the Ukrainian-Russian conflict of 2014-2022, have been dominated by military-technological analyses, neglecting other key aspects. The current approach does not sufficiently take into account the influence of socio-political, economic and cultural factors, which have a significant impact on the dynamics of the conflict. Russian disinformation, cyberattacks, propaganda activities and the participation of third countries, such as Belarus, and informal groups are integral elements of hybrid warfare, and their effects go beyond the military field. The main challenge in the analysis of such conflicts is the lack of a holistic view of their consequences, which makes it difficult to understand the full scope of irregular warfare. A complementary approach, taking into account the broader context, would allow for a better understanding of the relationships between the parties involved and more accurate forecasting and management of similar situations. Such a shift in research perspective could lead to the development of more effective strategies that better address the challenges of contemporary hybrid conflicts, including the integration of politics, cybersecurity, and international action
Attention span and concentration: A review of undergraduate students’ responses and practices
No full textCompulsive use of smartphones and the influence of other various external and internal factors have contributed to exacerbate students’ focus and concentration in class. In order to foster better cognitive competence, it is necessary to observe and improve students’ classroom concentration. This research paper examines and compares male and female students’ attention span in a 90-minute long English Language class. Moreover, it reviews the main factors which interfere with students’ concentration, based on their own responses and actions. The participants in this study were 60 students studying Management Business and Economics (MBE) at UBT - Higher Education Institution in Prishtina. The results obtained from the students’s responses and the classroom observations revealed that male students had a shorter concentration span; most of them (43.3%) reported that they were able to maintain their concentration in class for 20-30 minutes, whereas most female students (46.7%) stated that they could remain concentrated for 45 minutes or even more. As per students’ responses, the main factors affecting their concentration were: mobile devices, their colleagues, the classroom setting, the urge to smoke, large classes, noise and other factors which will be specified in the research paper
Aggression in teenagers
No full textThis study analyzes the phenomenon of aggression among adolescents, including its origin, the most frequent forms of aggression that we encounter among adolescents, the factors that contribute to its development, as well as its consequences for the future of adolescents and society as a whole. In adolescence, biological, emotional and social changes often lead to increased feelings of aggression. Factors such as the influence of hormones, social pressure, and the modeling of behaviors in their environments are important in understanding adolescent aggression. Aggressive behaviors in this age group are characterized by impulsivity, a sense of threat and conflicts with authority. These behaviors can lead to serious consequences for adolescents, including problems with academic performance, their relationships with family and society, and an increased risk of engaging in criminal behavior in the future. The study included a group of 100 teenagers aged 15-18 selected for the realization of the quantitative study, through the stratified random sampling technique (Stratified Random Sampling) for a more proportional representation of the target population. Data were collected using the standardized Buss-Perry scale for aggression. The study aimed to identify gender differences, the most frequent forms of aggression and what is associated with the level of aggression presence in adolescents
Surgical Treatment of Chronic Periapical Lesions
No full textChronic periapical lesions represent an inflammatory disorder of the periradicular tissue, caused by both endodontic and non-endodontic etiological agents. This review explores the persistence of these lesions, their treatment options, and the surgical interventions involved. Introduction Chronic periapical lesions are often the result of inadequate endodontic treatment. Common factors leading to their persistence include: Inadequate aseptic control Insufficient canal widening and shaping Undetected canals Inadequate instrumentation Coronal microleakage Pathophysiology Despite adherence to strict endodontic protocols, lesions may remain asymptomatic or symptomatic as radiolucencies due to the complexity of the root canal system, which comprises the main canal, lateral canals, branches, and anastomoses where residual infection Treatment may persist. Outcomes Conventional endodontic treatment typically yields success; however, in 10-15% of cases, symptoms may persist or spontaneously recur. Clinical indicators of complications include: Draining fistula Pain during mastication Increasing radiolucency on radiographs Surgical Intervention Given the above complications, surgical intervention is often necessary. The choice between retreatment and surgical options depends on specific clinical and anatomical factors. Surgical procedures usually entail: Removal of the root apex Curettage of necrotic, granulomatous, inflammatory, or cystic lesions Goals of The primary objectives of endodontic surgery include: Sealing the outlet portals in the root canal system an Endodontic Eliminating bacteria and their byproducts from periradicular tissue contamination Facilitating environment Classification conducive to the and regeneration Surgery of periradicular tissues Treatment This review describes chronic periapical lesions according to Grossman’s classification, detailing the etiology, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment for each type. The focus lies on the surgical treatment of chronic periapical lesions, including: Types of surgical interventions Indications and contraindications Surgical techniques for each intervention Conclusion: A thorough understanding of chronic periapical lesions and their treatment is essential for successful outcomes in endodontics. Future research should aim to refine surgical techniques and improve clinical result
Enhancing Diagnostic Accuracy and Treatment Planning in Fixed Prosthetics with Artificial Intelligence
No full textArtificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the field of fixed prosthetics by enhancing diagnostic accuracy and optimizing treatment planning. This paper explores the integration of AI technologies, such as machine learning and computer vision, in improving the precision of diagnostic tools and the efficiency of prosthetic design and placement. AI-driven systems have demonstrated superior capabilities in early detection of dental conditions like caries and periodontal diseases, crucial for the success of prosthetic treatments. By analyzing large datasets, AI tools offer consistent and objective analysis, reducing variability in diagnostics and treatment outcomes. Moreover, AI\u27s ability to generate personalized treatment plans based on comprehensive patient data leads to better-fitting prosthetics and improved patient satisfaction. The paper also discusses the ethical and legal challenges associated with AI adoption, emphasizing the need for responsible use and continuous monitoring to ensure equitable care. Looking ahead, advancements in deep learning, predictive analytics, and AI-driven decision support systems are expected to further transform fixed prosthetics, setting new standards for excellence in dental care. However, the successful integration of AI will depend on addressing these challenges proactively, ensuring that AI enhances, rather than diminishes, the role of clinicians in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care
Advancements in 3D Printing for Prosthodontics: Current Trends and Future Direction
No full textThe integration of 3D printing technology in prosthodontics has transformed the field by offering improved precision, customization, and efficiency in diagnosis, prosthesis fabrication, and dental implant placement. This presentation examines the current role of 3D printing in prosthodontics, emphasizing its applications in creating both fixed and removable prostheses, as well as implant-supported restorations. It also delves into advancements in dental materials science and alternative treatment protocols that have broadened the clinical use of 3D printing. By assessing recent technological developments and their practical implications, this presentation focuses on how 3D printing is shaping the future of prosthodontics and its potential to enhance patient outcomes through personalized, high-precision treatment options
“Skulpturë Tymi” Cyborg
No full textIn today\u27s industrial landscape, the dichotomy between progress and pollution stands as an ever-looming challenge. The Smoke Sculpture paper delves into this complex interplay, juxtaposing the statistics of air pollution emanating from industrial chimneys with the majestic yet ominous aesthetic of monumental smoke forms. Through a meticulous blend of art and nature, the paper manifests in untouched landscapes, where artificial fog machines evoke the industrial smoke that billows from chimneys. Intricate wire sculptures, resembling organic forms, intertwine with the ethereal steam, symbolizing both the organic essence of nature and the structured confines of human industry. However, they also serve as a border, highlighting the relentless advance of pollution despite our attempts to contain it. The sculptures encapsulate a paradox and the initial aspirations of industrial growth and prosperity inevitably lead to the unintended consequences of environmental degradation. As the steam sculptures tower like colossal monuments in the cityscape, they serve as a poignant reminder of humanity\u27s struggle to control the forces it unleashes. The paper deals with the aesthetic appeal of the forms of smoke as it emerges from industrial chimneys, transforming it into a symbol of both grandeur and uncontrollable consequence. Through these sculptures, we confront the intricate relationship between progress and pollution, urging contemplation and action toward a more sustainable futur
Comparative Evaluation of Microcontrollers for Real-Time Heart Rate Monitoring and Tachycardia/Bradycardia Detection
No full textA surge in the yearning for portable gadgets related to healthcare has ignited a coupling of microchip controllers with models from the realm of machine learning, aimed at the task of immediate health observation. It\u27s quite paramount, specifically in the context of identifying irregularities in heart rate, like tachycardia—where the heart races unusually fast—and bradycardia, an instance of a sluggish heartbeat. The neat thing is that this study takes a stab at contrasting the effectiveness among three popular microcontroller types—the ESP32, the Raspberry Pi, and the Arduino Nano 33 BLE Sense—in terms of real-time tracking of heartbeats and spotting any oddities (using, of course, a model developed with some machine learning elements). At the heart of this model lies the fundamental structure known as Long Short-Term Memory, or LSTM. This model has been finely tuned to identify those pesky heart rate inconsistencies, after which it finds its home, so to speak, on each of the microcontroller types where it\u27s applied for immediate reasoning. Microcontrollers are assessed on some pivotal metrics, alright? Think inference time or latency; toss in power use, how precise they are, the simplicity of melding them with heart rate sensors, and all that costing - that\u27s good to keep in mind. What we see from our research is that each of these little guys has its perks, certainly - but there\u27s always that trade-off lurking about, with processing mightiness, energy economy, and system expenses. The findings from this mash-up analysis are worth their weight for picking microcontrollers in the healthcare arena, especially for those wearables that can\u27t stop monitoring heart rates. And then, this exploration\u27s deductions are slipping into making more efficient, precise, and costfriendly healthcare system monitoring stuff
The Impact of Regular Soccer Training in Functional Abilities of Young Soccer Players
No full textAim: this study aims to evaluate the impact of a regular soccer training program during the preparatory and competitive periods on specific functional abilities. Methodology: The research was conducted during the fall season (August to December) with a sample of n=12 young soccer players (U17 category) from Football Club “Ramiz Sadiku” were included in this study. The research implemented 4 variables of functional abilities: Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and Forced Expiratory Volume in the First Second (FEV1) were measured using a spirometer (BTL_OB MT Plus ECG), while Maximum Oxygen Consumption (VO2max), and Relative Oxygen Consumption (VO2rel) were measured with Bicycle ergometer (Kettler). Initial testing was carried out before the pre-season, while the final testing occurred after four months of soccer training. Results: Analysis of the results (T-test) revealed statistically significant improvements between the initial and final tests in the following functional variables: Forced Vital Capacity (FVC, p = 0.047), Forced Expiratory Volume in the First Second (FEV1, p = 0.030), and Relative Oxygen Consumption (VO2rel, p = 0.020). Although there were improvements in Maximum Oxygen Consumption, the difference was not statistically significant (VO2max, p = 0.054). Conclusion: In conclusion, the regular soccer training program for U17 players led to positive changes in their functional abilities. It is recommended that young people engage in regular soccer training, as the benefits are not only in the development of soccer skills but also in the improvement of functional abilities